When your co-parent violates a custody order, it can leave you feeling frustrated and unsure of what to do next. The good news is that there are steps you can take to help you protect your parenting rights.
Document every violation
Keeping detailed records can make it easier to show what has been happening if the problem continues. Save text messages, emails and other written communication. It also helps to keep a log of missed exchanges, denied parenting time or other incidents, including the dates and what occurred.
The more organized your records are, the easier it may be to explain the situation if you need to take further legal action.
Follow the custody order yourself
It is understandable to feel frustrated when your co-parent ignores the custody order. Even so, withholding parenting time or making your own schedule changes could create additional problems.
A custody order remains legally binding until a court changes it, so you should continue following its terms even if your co-parent does not. Texas law also allows you to ask the court to enforce a temporary or final order. By following the order yourself, you can help protect your position while addressing the issue through the proper legal process.
Ask the court to enforce the order
If the violations continue, you can ask the court to enforce the custody order. A judge can review the evidence and determine whether the order has been violated. Depending on the circumstances, they may take steps to encourage compliance or address repeated violations.
Seeking enforcement through the court can provide a structured way to resolve the issue instead of allowing the conflict to continue.
Protect your parenting rights
Taking action sooner can help prevent custody issues from becoming even more difficult to resolve. If your co-parent continues to ignore the order, seek legal assistance to understand your options for enforcing it and protecting your time with your child.
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